Summer Watercolour Course

Ref: C3741657

Observational drawing and painting with both photographic reference and a portrait model. Specialise in mixing flesh tones, getting proportions right and getting suggestions of character. We will also look at the way other artists have posed their subjects. basically a watercolour class- however charcoal drawings and pastels may be used for quick studies and action drawings.

Course aim

Portrait painting is an aspect of Art which is an ultimate challenge- one challenge is finding a sitter. We will have 4 sitters across a 6 week course. Photographic reference will be used on other days.

Do I need any particular skills or experience?

This course is suitable for beginners and improvers

This course offers the chance to use a fully clothed portrait model. (NOT life drawing which is a nude model.)
This course will benefit all students of any ability.

By the end of the course I should be able to:

Use the entire page for your composition- boldly positioned drawing at the start

Use proportion well. Use markers and measurements to help.

Mix Flesh tones.

Explore quick drawing methods with charcoal drawings.

Explore two other portrait artists during the six sessions, Manet and Goya

How will I be taught?

The WEA tutor will use a range of different teaching and learning methods and encourage you and the group to be actively involved in your learning

You may be asked to undertake additional work in your own time to support your learning

You will be expected to carry out a range of activities in your own time

As homework- quick sketches of family- even pets.
Also some reading or on line research into the artists Manet and Goya.

What kind of feedback can I expect?

You will have opportunities to discuss your progress with your tutor

You will be encouraged to share your work with the group and discuss your learning

You will be encouraged to consider other students work and give your opinions and suggestions

A file of work will be kept which will help to record your progress

You will be asked to keep all your work to show at a final plenary session where you can share your achievements with others. and express your ideas with others.

What else do I need to know?

It would be helpful if you had access to the internet (Mobile phone, tablet or computer at home or through a library etc.)

You will need to bring to all sessions, A3 ( medium) watercolour paper. watercolour paints. Brushes -round 6 and 8. if you have an easel bring it. If not we have tables anyway. I will supply charcoal for quick sketches.

Pre-course work, reading and information sources

Try to research the Artists- Manet and Goya. Both excel in portraits and figure work. Select one image that you would like to make a study of during one of the sessions.

What can I do next?

Progress to another WEA course

Become involved as a volunteer for a WEA partner or another organisation